subject: Infectious Diseases 101 [print this page] When travelling abroad, it is necessary to find out if there are diseases or illnesses present in the country or region you are visiting. After determining this information, you must schedule an appointment with your doctor or an infectious diseases specialist in order to receive the necessary vaccinations. These vaccines will protect your body against these diseases and illnesses during your visit.
Preferably, you ought to get vaccinated four to six weeks prior to your departure, since this will permit the vaccines to build up and become effective in your body. Additionally, some vaccines are administered over a period of days or weeks. Thus, you must give yourself enough time to become vaccinated. If you are unsure which vaccinations you need, you can find the necessary information on the website of the Center for Infectious Diseases.
Travelers should be aware that while some vaccinations are merely recommended, others are required. For example, various countries in South America and Sub Saharan Africa require travelers get the yellow fever vaccination. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia demands all visitors receive vaccination against meningococcal diseases such as meningococcal meningitis that affects the brain. It is best to get in contact with the foreign consulate of the country you plan to visit or consult an infectious diseases expert to make sure that you get all the necessary vaccines. Otherwise, you will be putting yourself at risk of contracting a preventable illness.
Besides ensuring yourself against diseases and illnesses that you may confront in a foreign country, it is advisable to check that you are up to date with your routine vaccinations and immunizations. These vary between country and age group. So if you are unsure about which routine vaccinations you or your family needs its best to consult with your doctor so soon as possible.
If you are traveling with infants, small children or adolescents you must determine if there are any special vaccinations that they must receive before departure. Furthermore, it is best to see if there are any specific diseases or illnesses that are known to affect children more so than adults, and thus take the necessary precautions to ensure your child's health and safety.
Older travelers also need to take caution when traveling overseas because they are more susceptible to illnesses. Older people should turn to speak with their primary physician to determine if they are healthy enough to travel. If so, they must see which vaccines they need and if any special vaccinations should be administered.
